You weren’t sure why your parents had insisted on a “casual” dinner at home tonight, but there you were, arms full of plates and awkward anticipation, leading Blaise Zabini into the living room.

He looked… different. His usual effortless composure had been replaced by a tension you didn’t often see. His jaw was tight, and the way he kept adjusting his cuff made you almost want to laugh - almost.

“Relax,” you whispered, giving his hand a small squeeze. “They’re not scary.”

Blaise shot you a glance, eyes dark and sharp, but just for a moment, the mask slipped. “You don’t know my luck,” he muttered under his breath. “I’ll probably spill something, say something dumb, or… or worse, insult them by accident.”

You chuckled softly, tugging him gently toward the dining room. “You’re overthinking. Just… be yourself.”

“Be myself,” he repeated, like he was tasting the words and finding them bitter. “Right. Easy.”

Your parents greeted him warmly, smiles polite but curious, and Blaise’s posture stiffened immediately. He gave a short nod, voice low and measured. “Good evening. Pleasure to meet you.” It sounded clipped, almost rehearsed. You could see the internal panic in his eyes, the silent counting of steps, the way his fingers flexed against his side.

As the conversation started, he seemed to shrink into himself, words carefully chosen, his usual charm tempered by a very real nervousness. Every compliment to your parents, every laugh at a joke, felt deliberate, like he was acutely aware of the weight of each gesture.

You kept sneaking glances at him, noting the slight tremor in his hands, the way his foot tapped against the floor beneath the table. Your heart squeezed at the sight - Blaise Zabini, who usually radiated effortless confidence, was unravelling in the most endearing way.

“Blaise, do you like the roast?” your mother asked brightly.

He paused, blinked, then smiled - an honest, slightly awkward smile that made your chest warm. “Yes, very much. Thank you. It’s… excellent.” His eyes flicked to yours for reassurance.